UAE-based telecom group Etisalat has posted consolidated revenues of Dh51.7 billion ($14 billion) for 2015, marking an increase of seven per cent year over year.

Aggregate subscriber base reached 167 million during the year, while consolidated EBITDA totalled Dh26.5 billion, resulting in EBITDA margin of 51 per cent. In the UAE the active subscriber base grew to 11.6 million subscribers in the fourth quarter of 2015 representing a year on year growth of 6 per cent.

Consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to Dh8.3 billion resulting in a net profit margin of 16 per cent.

The company has proposed final dividend payout of 40 fils per share for 2015, representing a total dividend payout of 80 fils for the full year and a dividend payout ratio of 84 per cent.

Consolidated revenues for the fourth quarter amounted to Dh12.7 billion, while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to Dh2.6 billion resulting in a net profit margin of 21 per cent and increased year over year by 10 per cent.

Consolidated EBITDA for the fourth quarter totalled Dh6.5 billion, representing an increase of 19 per cent year over year and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51 per cent.

Etisalat chairman Eissa Al-Suwaidi said: “2015 proved to be another year of achievement for Etisalat as we consolidate our position as the leading operator in emerging markets. Increases in revenues and maintaining strong performance, despite the global challenges facing the telecom sector, is evidence that we continue to provide value to our shareholders and customers.”

“As we prepare to enter our fifth decade as a company, we remain in a strong position to realise the opportunities that will come with the digital transformation the world is undergoing. As a result of our experience and our investment in innovation, Etisalat Group is well-placed to go from strength-to-strength as we continue to move forward.

“I want to praise the Government’s continued support and for allowing institutional and foreign ownership of Etisalat’s equity in 2015. This landmark decision will have a positive impact both on Etisalat’s shareholders and the stock exchange,” he added.

Hatem Dowidar, Group acting chief executive officer, Etisalat, said: “The future of the global telecom industry is full of challenges and opportunities.  Whether it is unlocking new technologies, reforming an outdated regulatory framework or dealing with complex global market issues; Etisalat remains in a strong position to make real the opportunities that the digital transformation has to offer.”

“As a result of four decades of delivering large-scale projects, we have the assets and skills to provide a value proposition for the digital age, and positions Etisalat Group firmly as a capable partner for driving economic growth within the markets in which we operate.

“I am confident that the foundation of solid, long-term performance, combined with our experience and expertise, will ensure that Etisalat Group continues to deliver value to its shareholders and customers.  Such confidence is reinforced by the unwavering support of the UAE Government and our shareholders, along with the loyalty of our millions of customers,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service